Impact of liming and barley genotypes on phosphorus uptake, mycorrhizal symbiosis, and growth in acidic Ethiopian soils

Abstract Soil acidity is the major constraint to barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) production in Ethiopia. This study assessed the effectiveness of lime application in mitigating the adverse effects of soil acidity on 20 barley genotypes: 10 tolerant and 10 susceptible. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate phosphorus uptake and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) colonization. Significant differences were observed among genotypes for all measured root and shoot traits. Lime‐treated tolerant genotypes consistently performed better than susceptible genotypes, showing greater root length (48.1 vs. 40.6 cm in susceptible genotypes), root volume (7.5 vs. 6.03 cm 3 ), root dry weight (2.71 g vs. lower for susceptible), shoot dry weight (11.36 g), as well as higher phosphorus uptake. The results indicate that genotype‐dependent tolerance provides advantages under limed conditions. Notably, Kafisheko, 244928, and Disharo genotypes excelled in growth and phosphorus uptake under both aluminum stress and liming conditions. Mycorrhizal association in barley roots was significant, with tolerant genotypes displaying higher levels of hyphal colonization (41.9%) and arbuscules (6%) compared to susceptible ones, 32.9% and 4.56%, respectively. Barley roots demonstrated significant ( p < 0.05) mycorrhizal association with typical fungal structures (arbuscular, hyphae, and vesicles). AMF colonization improved phosphorus uptake in acidic soils. Post‐harvest soil analysis further showed that liming enhanced soil properties, including organic matter, soil pH, and nutrient availability. However, further research is recommended to evaluate other soil amendments and to understand the underlying mechanisms of plant tolerance better.